Chattanooga Fire Department, first responders participate in training scenario

HAMILTON COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – Imagine being trapped in a collapsed building. Local first responders are learning how to get victims out safely. It is an intense 80-hour course.

Rescuers learn how to lift, move, break and breach heavy objects.

“For us to be able to have a live scenario like this, for the students, it is really important,” said Senior Firefighter Tyler Hansen. “We can sit in a classroom and read out of a book all day. But when you put the words to an actual project like this, it just makes things come together a little bit better.” 

Friday’s course simulated a car that left the road and hit a house, trapping people inside.  

Students had to develop problem solving skills that could save lives one day.

“You have to think of all the things that you do not see as often and we do not want to sacrifice our ability to do our job,” said Lieutenant Benjamin Wright. “If we didn’t have the exposure to do this before it happened, we would basically get ahead of what might happen, and we have to be prepared for that.”

Twenty-two people participated in the class, including firefighters and law enforcement officers. 

First responders say it is a fantastic way to learn skills together and make the community safer.  

“We are learning skills together that is going to help us and our community,” said Bradley County Fire Rescue Lieutenant Loretta Thompson. “We are learning how to work together, as a team. If we cannot work together as a team, it is going to hinder our community and those that need our help.”